(Lecture & Guided Tour) Knowing and Growing Irises

Thanks to a generous invitation from the Bancroft family, visitors will have the rare opportunity to step beyond the Garden gates and tour Ruth Bancroft’s private iris garden — led by members of the Mt. Diablo Iris Society.

Long before she became known for her succulents at the Ruth Bancroft Garden, Ruth was an avid iris collector. Her personal collection includes rare hybrids and unique heirloom varieties, reflecting decades of passion and careful cultivation.

This event is rain or shine.

Cancellation and refund policy can be found here.

Please Note:

Iris tour dates are scheduled based on historical bloom patterns; however, as living systems, gardens do not always follow predictable timelines, particularly with shifting climate conditions. While peak bloom has often occurred in early May, flowering times may vary, and we cannot guarantee peak bloom during your tour. Regardless of the bloom state, the tour will still feature an engaging and informative talk from the Iris Society and the surrounding garden will be beautiful to explore. Hope you can join us!